Roman ruins

We were ready and waiting in the rooftop bar, when the Queensland crew arrived, so we all enjoyed a drink together and began the process of getting to know each other, before crossing the river to the Trastevere precinct for a dinner of traditional Roman carbonara (no cream in sight!). We were soon back at the hotel saying our goodnights, well and truly ready for a decent sleep. 

Friday morning found us all greatly refreshed and keen to explore, so keen in fact, that we rendezvoused downstairs at 6:30 am in an attempt to beat the crowds to the renowned Trevi Fountain. Even at that early hour, there were plenty of people gathered at the fountain, but we could at least get down to the water’s edge and managed to get plenty of photos. 

With the Palazzo Poli appearing to grow up from the same rock that the fountain’s sculptures have been carved from, this truly is an ancient Roman wonder and a sight to behold. 

We smiled ruefully at the many women who were there, at 7 am, in their finest gowns, posing for photos. It seems to be somewhat of a tradition, but as we didn’t get the memo, and had left our ballgowns back in Aus, we had to make do with our touristy outfits. 

On the return journey we passed the Pantheon, another jaw- dropping sight. In fact that about sums up all of Rome. It seems that around every corner, down every cobblestone laneway, there is a remarkable piece of architecture or an alluring view of an ancient domed building that you can never quite find. 

Following breakfast back at the hotel, we set off again, this time for a guided tour of the Roman Forum and Colosseum.  It was a deliciously warm, sunny day and the 2 1/2 hour tour was both informative and fascinating. Being able to walk on and around the Colosseum, through the Gladiators gate and out into the arena is definitely a memorable experience. Rome redefines the concept of ‘ancient’.  

4 set off for more adventure and 4 returned to the hotel, where we rested and indulged in gelato in the shady courtyard. This was followed by a refreshing beverage from the hotel bar before we returned to our rooms to prepare ourselves for another walking tour, this time food-based. 

Our cheerful guide filled us with information about traditional foods specific to the Roman region, and the artisan street food shops we visited, filled us with delectable dishes, beginning with a variety of salamis; the classic pre-pizza dish of ‘suppli’ (think arancini with mozzarella in the middle);  margherita pizza and a potato and rosemary variety which were both very tasty; the unusual deep-fried artichoke, a dish from the Jewish quarter; and finally, what meal would be complete without gelato? (Yes, our second for the day). 

Its lights out now on another busy day, full of amazing discoveries.